05/23/2026
Stephen Colbert, Class Day Speaker 2008
18 years ago as an usher for the upper class’s graduation, I had a star-struck moment of getting to meet Stephen Colbert, the Class Day speaker! At the time he was on Comedy Central playing a satirical political commentator. His graduation speech captured his humor - a mix of irony and inspiration, “You can change the world. Please don’t do that - some of us like it the way it is.” He spoke of the promise and potential of being a new grad, and recognized how it was a time of uncertainty. He reminisced how when he was graduating, “I was worried I wouldn’t find a job or my place in the world.” He definitely found both.
Seamlessly transitioning from satire to Late Night for the past 11 years, Stephen Colbert has been a master comedian, interviewer, hype man, family man, and performer. He taught us the impact of our words and conversations. As Jim Gaffigan said in the show’s final segment, “A sincere thank you for being you.”
In honor of the The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, here are my answers to his carefully crafted 15-question “Colbert Questionert:”
1. What is the best sandwich?
A pear/brie/watercress sandwich, first shared with my high school bestie on our first trip to New York City as a graduation trip… such a perfect mix of texture and flavors!
2. What was the first concert you attended?
O.A.R. - we got the lawn seats at Charlotte’s PNC pavilion — still one of our favorite venues!
3. What is the scariest animal?
Don’t like snakes or eels. Too wiggly!
4. Apples or oranges?
A Sumo orange - can’t beat that juicy sweetness hidden under that off-putting peel
5. Have you ever asked someone for their autograph?
Don’t have any autographs, but got this sweet selfie above with Stephen Colbert when he was the Class Day speaker in 2008!
6. What do you think happens when we die?
I believe after death, there is great peace.
7. Favorite action movie?
All of the Jason Bourne movies!
8. Window or aisle seat?
Window seat is the best for napping :)
9. Favorite smell?
French vanilla candles
10. Least favorite smell?
Can’t do vomit… makes me want to
(Final 5 in comments)
